Braces or Aligners – Which is Better to Choose?

What to choose – Aligners or traditional Braces? Which option for straightening teeth and correcting bite will be best for you?

Learn more about the advantages of both options and how they work.

Traditional braces and Invisalign aligners are equally popular methods of orthodontic treatment used to gradually straighten teeth, correct bite, and tackle other problems.

Firstly, it is worth mentioning that, unlike braces, aligners can solve most, but not all orthodontic problems. Therefore, it should be considered while visiting your orthodontist.

However, in many cases, both options may be suitable for you, and you have to make a choice depending on your lifestyle.

Invisalign Aligners: How They Work

Invisalign is the most well-known brand of clear  aligners, an orthodontic device used to straighten teeth. They can be a good option for those who are dissatisfied with the appearance of their teeth, have crowded teeth, bite problems, or large gaps between their teeth.

Clear aligners, also known as invisible braces, are made of medical-grade plastic and are custom-fitted to apply gentle pressure to the teeth, gradually moving them into the desired position. They are created using 3D scans of the patient’s teeth, allowing for a detailed analysis of the dental condition.Clear and almost invisible aligners are an alternative to traditional metal braces.

With aligners, teeth are moved into the correct position by approximately 0.2-0.3 mm with each new set. Depending on the complexity of each individual case, the patient will be offered a course of a series of aligners – from 12 to 48.

If necessary, the patient may be given a set of “test” aligners to allow the oral cavity to get used to the alignment process.

Each set is worn for about two weeks. The duration of treatment depends on the individual characteristics of the patient, but on average, the course lasts 6-18 months.

Advantages of Clear Aligners

Appearance

Unlike metal braces, clear plastic Invisalign aligners are virtually invisible.

Comfort

Clear aligners fit well over the teeth and do not cause cuts or discomfort.

Easy to Brush Teeth

Aligners can be easily removed, allowing you to brush your teeth as usual. There’s no need for more thorough or complex dental care as with traditional braces, which require additional tools.

Eat any kind of food

Brace wearers must avoid hard foods that are difficult to chew, such as nuts, popcorn, and hard candy. Since aligners can be removed before eating, there’s no need to avoid these foods.

Fewer Orthodontist Visits

Patients with aligners do not visit the orthodontist as often as those with braces. Only one or two visits to the doctor are needed to install these orthodontic systems.

Disadvantages of Clear Aligners

Limited for Complex Corrections

Clear aligners aren’t suitable for all orthodontic cases. They’re generally best for individuals who require minor tooth straightening.

Must Be Removed Before Eating

Although patients can drink water while wearing aligners, they need to remove them before eating. This can be inconvenient, especially when dining out at restaurants or cafes.

The material used for aligners is soft and can easily be damaged by food. Additionally, clear plastic can stain and warp when exposed to hot or warm drinks.

When not in use, aligners must be stored in a protective case.

Required Discipline

Aligners should be worn for at least 20-22 hours a day. Consistent wear is essential to achieve the desired results. Failing to adhere to the recommended wear time can slow down progress or even compromise the final outcome.

As aligners can be easily removed, there’s a risk of losing or misplacing them.

More often teethbrushing

Wearing aligners requires brushing teeth after every meal before putting them back on. Poor oral hygiene can lead to bad breath and cavities.

Aligners themselves require regular cleaning with a soft-bristled toothbrush, mild soap, or a specialized cleaning solution.

Braces

Braces  remain a popular device for straightening teeth and have a number of other important functions. They harmonize the face, restore the angles of the lower jaw that soften with age, add volume to the lips, normalize the position of the tongue, improve breathing, and can even solve the problem of headaches and neck pain.

Braces are mostly popular among teenagers aged 9 to 14. According to statistics, 25-50% of children at some point require orthodontic treatment. However, braces are popular with adults as well.

Types of Braces

Metal braces are the most popular and time-tested option. They have been used in orthodontics for over a century. The first braces were heavy, very noticeable, and quite uncomfortable. However, with advancements in technology, metal braces have significantly improved. They are now much more comfortable and provide excellent results in a shorter period.

Traditional braces are connected into a single system using a metal archwire and elastic bands that can be chosen in various colors. You’ll need to visit your orthodontist every 4-8 weeks for adjustments or replacements of the archwire to move your teeth into the correct position.

Ceramic braces are made of a transparent material that matches the color of your teeth. They are less noticeable to others than metal braces.

However, these braces are slightly larger in size and can sometimes chip.

It’s worth noting that metal and ceramic braces are usually cheaper than aligners.

Self-ligating braces are available in both metal and clear ceramic materials. Their unique feature is the use of special clips instead of rubber bands.

These braces are easier to install and adjust. They are suitable for people who are overly sensitive to discomfort in their mouth and for those who cannot sit still for long periods in a dental chair.

Lingual braces, the least common type, are attached to the back of your teeth. Only highly qualified orthodontists can install these braces. The advantage of these braces is that they are almost completely invisible.

Lingual braces are more expensive than other types of braces and aligners.

Benefits of Braces

Work for any level of complexity

Braces are a universal treatment that works for both minor and complex cases. Braces that are attached directly to each tooth are a more powerful tool than clear aligners and will work in any circumstance.

A variety to choose from

Your doctor can offer you braces that are right for you. Metal braces are the most affordable option, but you can choose lingual, ceramic braces, or self-ligating braces depending on your lifestyle, features, and sensitivity.

Cannot be removed without a professional

Unlike aligners, patients cannot remove braces without the help of an orthodontist. There is no need to remove braces before meals and worry about forgetting to put them on.

Any drinks allowed

Braces are heat resistant, so you can drink tea, coffee, or other drinks throughout the day.

Drawbacks of Braces

Discomfort in the Mouth

Although metal braces have evolved significantly since their inception, they can still cause some discomfort. It takes time to get used to them, and in some cases, they may irritate the inside of the mouth.

Appearance

Braces, especially traditional metal ones, are hard to miss, unlike clear aligners.

Dietary Restrictions

People with braces must avoid certain foods. Chewy foods, hard bakery items, candy, and popcorn are among the items to avoid. These foods or their fragments can get stuck in the braces or even damage them. Poor food choices or snacks can lead to damage and necessitate an unplanned visit to the orthodontist.

Frequent Doctor Visits

Having braces requires regular visits to the orthodontist.

Comparative Table

To make the right choice between braces and aligners, always consult with a specialist at the  YAREMA DENTAL clinic.